Independently Owned, Locally Grown, Community Loved
OPINION PIECE from the office of Federal Member for Dawson Andrew Willcox There is no question that immigration into Australia is out of control. The government’s numbers are too high, and standards are too low. A sustainable migration program must consider our capacity to provide housing, healthcare, infrastructure and the essential services everyone relies on, and Australians must come first. But Labor’s decision to target Working Holiday Makers Visa holders is not the answer. These people filling vital gaps in our workforce are not the cause of Australia’s housing crisis. In many cases, they are living in accommodation provided by the very businesses that employ them. The National Farmers’ Federation has made the point that Working Holiday Makers generally stay in hostels, caravan parks or purpose-built on-farm accommodation. Resorts usually have on-site staff quarters. They are not the source of Australia’s housing shortage. So why is Labor making it harder for them to come here, when these workers fill genuine jobs that regional Australia holds? Working Holiday Makers fill approximately one in seven farm jobs nationally and are particularly important during peak agricultural periods, which for Dawson, it is right now! Farmers rely on these workers to plant, pick, pack and harvest the produce that ends up on Australian supermarket shelves. Having run one of Australia’s largest tomato farms, at times Working Holiday Makers made up more than 50 per cent of my workforce. Without them, much of our crop simply would not have been picked in time and rotted in the paddock. Some may say, why not employ the Australians who don’t have a job and are on “the dole”? Can I say, this does not work. Most farmers will employ Aussies over travelling backpackers, but many either don’t want to do the work or don’t turn up after the first day. Who picks the fruit or veggies then? Farmers are already warning that visa delays are leaving them without workers. The NFF says approvals that once took days are now facing processing times of up to three months, and this time frame can be the difference between harvesting a crop or losing it. That should concern every Australian already feeling the pressure at the supermarket checkout. The same problem is playing out in tourism. Across Dawson, Working Holiday Makers are an important part of the workforce supporting tourism and hospitality, particularly in the Whitsundays. They help fill shifts, work in hotels and restaurants, support tour operators and keep businesses running through their busiest periods. They also contribute to the local economy. They spend money on food, fuel, attractions and tours, supporting the small businesses that depend on a strong visitor economy. That is why tourism and business leaders across North Queensland are raising the alarm. They understand what happens when a regional business cannot get enough staff: opening hours are reduced, and services are cut, creating a downward spiral. We do need to reduce migration to sustainable levels. We need stronger integrity measures, and we need to crack down on rorts. But responsible migration policy means understanding which parts of the system are creating pressure and which parts are helping Australia function. Working Holiday Makers are not the problem. They are part of the workforce solution for regional. Australia. People have had a gutful of watching their standard of living go backwards. Groceries, fuel, housing and everyday expenses are already putting enormous pressure on families. The last thing Australians need is another reckless policy that makes it harder to produce food, harder to run regional businesses and harder for tourism operators to find the workers they need.
Read the full storySomeone sold a house in Sydney last week for $9 million less than they bought it for four or five years ago. The sellers had bought the property in Sydney’s eastern suburbs for $29 million and sold it for $20 million in a sale forced by their bank. I imagine the sellers are a little disappointed by the government’s decisions on negative gearing and capital gains tax and feeling pretty hurt by the increased interest rates. Australia’s interest rates are on the rise and are now sitting at levels not seen since 2011. Increased cost of living is hurting people around the country and interest rates are playing into that. But the impact of interest rates is not felt evenly around the country. The far-higher property prices mean people in the major cities suffer much more than regional areas with the rates increase. That is certainly not to say people in Mackay are unaffected by the cost of living; it’s just that the impact of interest rates increase on a $400,000 mortgage is much less than the impact on a $1m mortgage. There are other Mackay-specific factors that are in play when discussing the current housing market. The big factor is the role of coal in our economy. Most of the coal extracted and exported from our region is coking coal, which is used to make steel. The price of coking coal is around $280 a tonne, which is about 50 per cent up. Good activity in the coal market translates to good news for the Mackay economy, as it is an economic engine that other cities and regions just don’t have. Good activity in Bowen Basin flows throughout the Mackay economy; Paget workshops, transport, suppliers and related businesses all benefit. But so do other, non-mining-related businesses as they benefit from the general confidence and spending that goes on. The strong mining activity also means mines need to keep their staff levels up and that means more people moving to Mackay. Of course, Mackay is much more than a coal mining town but if the coal sector is going well those other areas definitely benefit. It is a confidence boost for Mackay people looking to get into the housing market and those wanting to upgrade or downsize. It also means continuing strong demand from people wanting to rent a property and it will be interesting to see what sort of activity that creates from investors. Investors have walked away from the big-city markets because they can no longer use negative gearing on established properties that do not have a sufficient yield to be positively geared. Negative gearing has never been a big thing in Mackay because our prices are lower and rental returns continue to be strong so many investors have a positively geared property. Around the country everyone is nervous about the state of play and the probability of more interest rate rises. But strong coal prices and an economy that is performing well mean Mackay might just be presenting an opportunity for buyers and sellers that doesn’t exist in other parts. I remember when national confidence was flying high and Mackay prices were going up significantly that many buyers were saying “I wish we had bought a while ago when the market wasn’t so hot”. I’m not armed with a crystal ball so I’m not here to tell you what is going to happen but I suspect there is a very good buying window right now for those looking for an opportunity.
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A local Mackay and Sarina based model has created a dress out of newspapers, including Mackay Life, for her upcoming pageant, representing her region and hometown on the runway as she vies for Miss Diamond International in Brisbane. Zoe Place will be competing this weekend in the three-day event, beginning this Friday 2nd October and ending on Sunday 4th October. The young model spent around a month creating her eco-fashion outfit, using old newspapers as the main material and transforming them into a bodice, skirt and flowers. Red elements were also incorporated into the design to give the dress a bold and glamorous pageant feel. Zoe said, “The entire concept was really about taking something that would normally be thrown away and turning it into something beautiful and meaningful.” Her eco-fashion creation will form part of a busy weekend in Brisbane, with the Miss Diamond International event including photo shoots, interviews, an eco-fashion show and the final pageant. Zoe has been preparing for the event by practising her strut and walking, preparing for interviews and getting comfortable in the different outfits she will wear throughout the weekend. Alongside her love of modelling, pageantry has also provided Zoe with a platform to raise awareness about causes close to her heart, including mental health, while fundraising for Beyond Blue. “Pageantry has given me more of a platform to combine my love for modelling with something that is really important to me.” “When I first started, I was more nervous about putting myself out there and worried about what others would think about me – but I’ve changed a lot through my journey in pageantry.” “Pageantry has also taught me that it’s not about how you look on stage. It’s about the person you are when you step off it.” “Every woman has their own unique journey and that journey is something we should all be really proud of.” “To me, it represents confidence, empowerment, kindness, and using your voice to make a difference.” Zoe said she was looking forward to meeting the other contestants, making new connections and creating memories. “I’m definitely looking forward to meeting all the new contestants and making new connections and creating memories that I will carry with me for a lifetime.” While Zoe hopes to eventually move to the city, her sights are set even further afield, with a dream of one day walking in New York Fashion Week. Mackay and Sarina local Zoe Place has created an eco-fashion dress from recycled newspapers, including Mackay Life, ahead of her Miss Diamond International pageant in Brisbane. Photos supplied
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Trends, reels and the endless cycle of always wanting more has quietly bombarded the minds of countless social media users of all ages, but one former Mackay local has made it her mission to help others understand the effects of social media and find practical ways to break free from online addiction. Alexis Zahner is in Mackay over the next week to teach upcoming generations about social media and the effects it can have on the mind, particularly on identity, self-discovery, as well as the marketing strategies that get viewers hooked and influence their decisions. It is something Alexis knows first-hand can be a useful tool, but also a great disruption to authenticity and the world as we see and experience it. Alexis will hold a free meet and greet and book launch today, Friday 2nd October, at 5.30pm at the Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club, where she will give a talk and answer questions relating to her debut book, Real: Reconnecting to Yourself in a World of Likes and Lies. A former Mackay girl, Alexis spent the past 15 years working across business psychology, marketing and media, with her interest in social media influence beginning during her university studies at James Cook University in Townsville. Her own experience as a social media user, travel blogger and influencer eventually led her to question how much of her identity, decisions and values were being shaped by what she saw online. “The tipping point came for me about 3 years ago when I had this feeling that I couldn't separate influence from my own personal decision making,” she said. “I couldn't separate my own likes, dislikes, values, relationships from what I was being exposed to and being influenced by online.” “I found that I needed to take some time away from social media to recalibrate what was important to me and sort of reconnect and come back to myself.” Alexis said she understood the feeling of questioning who you are outside of social media. “I know what it feels like to live a life under the influence of social media and have that existential crisis of thinking to yourself, who am I? What do I like? What's the kind of life I want to live? and struggling to separate myself from influence.” Alexis is particularly passionate about reaching teenagers, who she says are in an important stage of identity development, and will share this message with Mackay high school students during her upcoming school talks. “Teenagers are really easily influenced by social media. So it's a really important age where we start educating them – not just on the mental health repercussions of things like social media and how it shortens their attention span, but how it actually influences who they become.” “If you're asking yourself these questions, it's not your fault. Social media is actually geared to create this impact on you.” Alexis encourages people of all ages to “start expanding beyond what you see on the platform.” “Dare to indulge in the things that you've always been curious about or things you used to love,” she said. “Don't be afraid to put the phone down to let yourself be curious and have fun.” What: Alexis Zahner's 'Real' Book launch When: 5.30pm Friday 2nd October 2026 Where: Mackay Surf Lifesaving Club Former Mackay local and author Alexis Zahner is returning home to share her experiences with social media and her debut book, Real. Photo supplied
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Mackay Regional Council has raised concerns about proposed changes to Australia’s disaster recovery funding arrangements, which would alter how disaster recovery costs are shared between the Australian Government and state and territory governments.
The Australian Government is proposing a new Disaster Recovery Funding Framework that would establish an equal 50/50 funding model between the Commonwealth and state and territory governments, replacing the existing Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA), under which the Commonwealth can reimburse states and territories for up to 75 per cent of eligible disaster assistance costs.
The Government says the proposed framework would simplify funding, help support reach affected communities sooner and increase investment in disaster resilience. Consultation with states, territories and local government is currently underway, with the new framework to replace the existing arrangements once agreed.
Queensland councils have raised concerns about the potential financial impact of the changes, particularly in disaster-prone regional areas where significant costs can be incurred repairing roads, bridges, drainage and other public infrastructure following cyclones, floods and severe storms.
Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson said the proposed changes could have consequences for communities across the region.
“This is not simply another political argument. The proposed changes could have serious consequences for regional Queensland councils and communities like ours.
Mayor Williamson said Queensland could have received more than $700 million less in disaster assistance had the proposed arrangements applied last year.
“Had these changes applied to disaster funding last year, Queensland could have received more than $700 million less in disaster assistance.”
Queensland councils have also raised concerns about a reported $2.7 million disaster activation threshold, arguing it could affect access to Commonwealth assistance. The figure has been cited by the Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ), which is campaigning against the proposed changes.
Mayor Williamson said the proposed changes could ultimately place greater pressure on councils and ratepayers.
“Of even greater concern is the finer detail.
“The message being sent to councils appears to be simple: increase rates or go without.
“For councils like ours, that would mean local ratepayers carrying almost the entire cost of replacing damaged public infrastructure following declared disasters such as cyclones, floods, bushfires and severe storms.”
The Australian Government says the proposed framework would introduce a simpler threshold for accessing disaster funding, while a new Resilient Infrastructure Scheme would provide funding of up to 15 per cent, cost-shared with jurisdictions, to help communities build back better following disasters.
The LGAQ has been advocating against the proposed reduction in the Commonwealth’s contribution, with the organisation preparing a statewide submission opposing the changes. The submission is due to be lodged with the National Emergency Management Authority on August 19.
Mackay is also continuing to invest in disaster resilience, with about $19.3 million being spent on upgrades to the Pioneer River Levee system. The project includes a new levee wall, stormwater upgrades and road reconstruction, with funding from the Australian Government and Mackay Regional Council.
Mayor Williamson said regional communities should not be left to shoulder the cost of disaster recovery alone.
“Regional communities already face higher costs, greater distances and fewer resources. They should not also be expected to fund the recovery of essential public infrastructure with little support from the level of government collecting the overwhelming majority of the nation’s taxes.
“This proposal must be reconsidered.”
Mackay artist Logan Ivory has claimed first place in the QATSIF Creative Arts Competition for the second consecutive year. Photos supplied
Mackay teenager Logan Ivory has taken out first place in the QATSIF Creative Arts Competition for the second consecutive year. The Year 8 Catherine McAuley Catholic College (CMC) student was the only Mackay student to place in this year’s competition, which attracted 259 entries. Logan entered his artwork through CMC, with the school later presenting him with his award.
The annual competition, now in its ninth year, is hosted by QATSIF, with Griffith University sponsoring the 2026 event. Entries were judged on overall artistry, the artist’s description and each artwork’s connection to the 2026 Reconciliation Week or NAIDOC themes.
For Logan, the award follows years of developing his artistic craft and a style distinctly his own.
His art teacher, Kylie Ferriday, said Logan had remained committed to creating work that reflected his own perspective rather than conforming to popular or commercial trends.
“What has always made Logan remarkable as an artist is his unwavering commitment to authenticity. He has never felt the need to conform to what is popular, fashionable or commercially pleasing. Instead, he has developed a visual language that is unmistakably his own — using imagery to communicate thoughts, emotions and experiences that words alone cannot always capture,” Kylie said.
“As an autistic Indigenous teenager navigating today’s world, Logan brings a perspective to his work that is deeply personal. Art has become a powerful way for him to explore, process and communicate his experiences — and in doing so, his work has the potential to reach far beyond himself.”
The inspiration for his latest artwork began with a poem written by Logan titled I AM, which reflects on his thoughts, emotions, relationships and perspectives on life and death.
“I am Tall and smart,
I wonder if space is infinite.
I hear my thoughts.
I see my imagination.
I want peace.”
The poem goes on to explore Logan’s thoughts about his family, his own experiences, death, the future and his hope of starting again.
Logan says he was “completely blown away and in disbelief” after learning he had won the state award for a second consecutive year, and added that he was “humbled and extremely grateful for the opportunities QATSIF and Griffith University have created for young Indigenous artists.”
His mother, Corissa Ivory, said the family was “very proud” of Logan’s achievement.
“I’m excited to announce that Logan has won 1st place once again 2nd year in a row for the QATSIF Art competition.”
“We are all very proud of him,” she said.
QATSIF said artworks from the competition would be showcased through its statewide graduation ceremonies, QATSIF Board Room wall, 2026 Annual Report and other media outlets.
For Kylie Ferriday, Logan’s second consecutive state win represents years of dedication, courage and experimentation, as well as his commitment to developing his own artistic voice.
“As his art teacher and someone who has watched his artistic voice develop over many years, I could not be prouder,” she said.
Local organisations, volunteers and service providers came together at Queens Park for Together for Shelter last Thursday, connecting vulnerable community members with support, services and practical assistance during Homelessness Week. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Dozens of local organisations united at Queens Park last week as CASA Mackay's annual Together for Shelter event returned, bringing essential services, support and connection to some of the region's most vulnerable residents.
Held during Homelessness Week for the first time, the event welcomed close to 40 organisations and service providers offering everything from housing and health advice to meals, mental health support, veterinary care and practical assistancefor families, young people, pets and those experiencing hardship.
The event has grown significantly in recent years, prompting organisers to move from CQUniversity to the larger Queens Park venue and rebrand the event from the Homeless Expo to Together for Shelter.
CASA Mackay General Manager Will Stafford said the day was about ensuring people knew support was available when they needed it.
"We're really trying to build a community of community services. People might access one service, but they often need support in a few different areas, so having strong relationships between organisations translates into a better experience for clients," Mr Stafford said.
The CASA representative said rising living costs and increasing housing pressures had highlighted the importance of ensuring support services were both visible and accessible.
"We're seeing increasing cost-of-living pressures and rising rents, and we need to remove the stigma around asking for help. We want people to know the community cares and that support is available," he said.
"What keeps us up at night isn't the hard work we do during the day. It's the fear that there are people out there who think services like ours are for someone else, or that they don't know support is available."
Among the organisations in attendance was the Mackay Salvation Army, which emphasised the importance of collaboration between local support services.
"Together for Shelter is a great reminder that none of us can meet the needs of our community on our own," representative David Dobbie said.
"At The Salvation Army, we're really grateful to stand alongside so many other local organisations as we support people. When we work together, we can offer practical help, compassion and hope, and hopefully remind people that they're not alone."
Mackay Pet Rescue Inc volunteers and Northern Beaches Veterinary Hospital representatives also joined the event to provide health checks for furry friends and offer free support and essential supplies for pets belonging to people experiencing hardship.
St Patrick's College students and staff were also on hand, showcasing the school's Brekky Van initiative.
"This is a representation of what our Brekky Van does every Wednesday and Friday morning in partnership with Orange Sky," assistant principal Andrea Crocker said.
"We provide breakfast for people in our community who need a hot, nourishing meal."
Year 11 St Patrick's College student Camilla Cicchelli said the experience had been rewarding.
"We're here today to help our community in any way we can," she said.
"It's been a fantastic day, we've met lots of wonderful people, and hopefully we've been able to help plenty of people with a nice meal as well."
Organisations providing housing support, first aid, free haircuts, employment assistance, healthcare services, community support, pet supplies and street chaplaincy services were among those in attendance, offering a broad range of practical assistance to people across the5e region.
With housing affordability and cost-of-living pressures continuing to challenge many households, the event demonstrated the importance of collaboration between local organisations and the role these services play in supporting the community.
Mackay’s Vietnam veterans will gather at Jubilee Park on August 18th to mark 60 years since the Battle of Long Tan and remember those who served and sacrificed during the Vietnam War. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Sixty years after the Battle of Long Tan, Mackay’s Vietnam veterans will gather at Jubilee Park to remember those who served, those who were wounded and those who never returned home.
Vietnam Veterans Day in Mackay will be held on Tuesday 18th August from 5pm, marking the 60th anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan where17 Australians were killed and 26 wounded.
For Legacy Mackay President and Vietnam veteran Les Palmer, the day carries great significance.
Les was 22 when he went to Vietnam in November 1969, just one month after marrying his wife. His service came through compulsory national service, after he had completed an apprenticeship at the Daily Mercury.
While the Battle of Long Tan is central to Vietnam Veterans Day, Les said the occasion also provided an opportunity to remember veterans who were lost in other battles and incidents throughout the war.
He was wounded during a separate incident involving his battalion, in which nine were killed and 16 wounded.
“Everybody who served, was impacted in some sort of way, even if you didn't get wounded,” he said.
Les said recognition of Vietnam veterans had also changed over the decades, with greater acknowledgement of the experiences and sacrifices of those who returned home.
The annual ceremony will include a parade, the Australian and New Zealand national anthems, wreath-laying and the laying of poppies at the memorial. Members of the public are welcome to attend.
This year, a naval cadet commanding officer will deliver the guest address, with the local veterans group keen to provide an opportunity for younger members of the Australian Defence Force to take part.
For Les Palmer, the enduring friendships formed during military service are among the memories that remain strongest.
“Out there you made a lot of mates, and the memories you make with them are the main thing that you take with you,” he said.
Decades after the war, reunions continue to bring former servicemen together.
Les also remembers the outlook he had as a young man preparing to serve.
“I was actually keen to go because Dad had served in World War 2 and I thought, well, if he can do it, so can I,” he said.
He acknowledged his father understood the realities of war more deeply than he did at the time.
“He wasn't happy, because he knew what happened in wars, and I was just young and thought I was bulletproof.”
As the number of Vietnam veterans continues to decline, Les said the Legacy Mackay Veterans Support Group was also looking towards the future of encouraging younger veterans to become involved.
“What we really need now are Afghanistan, Iraq, East Timor, all types of servicemen to come together, even those that are young, and carry the legacy,” he said.
For those attending Vietnam Veterans Day, the ceremony will provide an opportunity to pause and remember not only the events of Long Tan, but the many Australians whose lives were lost, reshaped and forever changed by the Vietnam War.
Hundreds of Mackay locals came together for the 2026 BMA CQ Rescue Fun Run. Photo credit: Coffee and Hobbs Photography
Hundreds of Mackay residents laced up their runners, volunteered their time and cheered from the sidelines as the community came together in support of the annual BMA CQ Rescue Fun Run earlier this month.
Held at Iluka Park last Sunday 2nd August, the event saw participants tackle 5km, 7.78km and 10km courses along the Bluewater Trail, with every registration and donation helping to keep the region's community-funded rescue helicopter in the air.
Beyond the runners, the success of the event relied on a dedicated team of volunteers, sponsors and supporters who helped with everything from course setup and water stations to merchandise sales and event coordination.
BMA CQ Rescue thanked everyone who played a part in making the morning such a success.
"Thank you to every single person who laced up their runners, volunteered their time, cheered from the sidelines, or helped make the day such a success," the organisation said.
"Your support helps keep our community-funded rescue helicopter flying for those who need it most."
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli was in Mackay on Tuesday to unveil the long-awaited Mackay Base Hospital master plan, promising major upgrades to services, capacity and parking set to be delivered by 2030. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli was in Mackay on Tuesday 11th August to unveil a long-awaited master plan for the Mackay Base Hospital, describing the future facility as “world-class”.
The announcement comes after years of community concern around hospital capacity, parking and pressure on services, with local politicians describing the plan as a significant step forward for the growing region.
For many Mackay residents, the announcement was long-awaited, with locals now looking to see the plans translate into action.
After years of community concern surrounding capacity, car parking and pressure on services, a long-awaited master plan for Mackay Base Hospital has been unveiled.
Queensland Premier David Crisafulli was in Mackay on Tuesday 11th August, visiting the hospital to announce the release of the plan, which outlines the next stage of a major expansion, with Mr Crisafulli describing the planned facility as “world-class”.
Stage 1 of the expansion is set to deliver at least 128 new overnight beds, expanded emergency, maternity, birthing, surgical, endoscopy, neonatal and paediatric services, a new Mackay Birth Centre, more than 1,000 new car parks and a rooftop helipad.
Main construction works are scheduled to commence in 2027, with all Stage 1 packages now expected to be delivered by 2030.
Mr Crisafulli said the master plan provided a long-term blueprint for the hospital as the region continues to grow. He also said the government had increased the Queensland Health workforce in the Mackay region by 270 people since coming to government.
“Today is about a blueprint for the future. It’s about saying to the people in Mackay that you do deserve a world-class facility, staffed by world-class clinicians,” he said.
Member for Mackay Nigel Dalton said the master plan was the next step in addressing the region’s hospital needs.
“We know the car parking has been an issue. Many, many people come to my office and speak to me about those issues. We’re going to fix that,” he said.
“We’ve now got the plan, we’re going to move forward.”
Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm said the expanded services would benefit families across the Greater Whitsunday region, including those travelling to Mackay for healthcare.
“If you’re a young mum or you’re contemplating starting a family, you deserve a world-class maternity service,” Ms Camm said.
She also highlighted the recommissioning of the hospital’s on-site helipad, which is intended to restore direct helicopter transfers for critically ill and injured patients.
“We know, in an emergency, that those seconds count,” she said.
Health Minister Tim Nicholls said the master plan followed a review of the previous expansion program and consultation with the hospital and health service board, clinicians and staff.
“Our recommendation is to replan. And so we have replanned, and we have taken the time to replan, in consultation with the hospital and health service board, and with the clinicians and with the staff here at the hospital,” Mr Nicholls said.
While the announcement was taking place, a local woman who had been a patient at the hospital also shared her experience after approaching the visiting politicians. After spending the previous 10 days in and out of the hospital, she said she had observed the pressure on staff.
“The staff are so hammered and so flat out. They are giving care from the heart, but you can see the anguish in their face when they just don’t have time to do something,” she said.
“You’ve got to start asking people on the ground what they need.”
With the master plan now released, the focus shifts to its delivery, with main construction works scheduled to commence in 2027 and Stage 1 packages expected to be delivered by 2030.
12th August 2026
For more than 8 years, World Wide Boat Brokers (WWBB) has been helping people buy, sell and enjoy boating across Australia. With eight locations nationwide, the team combines local knowledge with a global network and experience across both new and pre-owned vessels.
Here in the Whitsundays, the team is led by locals Dan and Jennie Howcroft, who have called the region home for more than 20 years. Based at Port of Airlie, the Whitsundays office provides local expertise backed by the reach of the wider World Wide Boat Brokers team.
World Wide Boat Brokers has recently expanded its offering, having been appointed Queensland Agent for the Hanse Group. The appointment brings an exciting selection of internationally recognised sailing and motor yacht brands to Queensland, giving local boat buyers greater choice when considering a new vessel.
The range includes Excess performance catamarans, Southerly Yachts with their innovative swing keel, Hanse cruising yachts, Moody luxury true deck saloons, Dehler cruiser-racers, Fjord head-turning day boats and Sealine family motor yachts.
With Airlie Beach as the gateway to some of Australia’s most spectacular cruising grounds, having access to the right boat can open up an entirely different way of exploring the region.
Whether it’s sailing the Whitsunday Islands, relaxing at Whitehaven, heading offshore to the Great Barrier Reef, spending weekends with family or setting off on bluewater adventures, there is now a broader range of new boats to explore alongside WWBB’s extensive brokerage listings.
Dan and Jennie have built a strong reputation as preferred Whitsunday brokers, going above and beyond for the local boating community. They also offer boat management and superyacht services, while WWBB provides brokerage services and expert advice on ownership options, including syndicates.
The team’s presence across North Queensland is growing, with new broker Mike Adlard based in Townsville and servicing the wider region. Supporting this expansion is Alex Wenger, WWBB’s New Boat Sales & Liaison, dedicated to new boat sales across the entire range.
As part of the new Hanse offering, WWBB Whitsundays will host a Hanse Open Yacht Day on Saturday 15 August, from 12pm–5pm, during the lay day of Airlie Beach and Hamilton Island Race Weeks. Visitors are invited to step aboard a Hanse 410 and meet the team.
Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, explore ownership options or simply curious about what’s available, drop into the Whitsundays office at The Boathouse, Port of Airlie Marina.
“Dan and Jennie are a real power duo and have been excelling in the Whitsundays. They are integral members of the team, playing a key role in our continued expansion. We couldn’t do it without them.” - Ant Kovacevic, WWBB Managing Director
“We’re incredibly fortunate to live and work in the Whitsundays, and we see firsthand how much there is to enjoy on the water. We’re excited to offer locals more choice and help them find a boat that genuinely fits what they’re looking for.” - Dan Howcroft, WWBB Whitsundays
With more brands, boats and local expertise on your doorstep, there has never been a better opportunity to find the right boat for you.
worldwideboatbrokers.com.au
For Whitsunday renters, the latest figures suggest finding a home remains a significant challenge. Photo source: Shutterstock
The Whitsunday rental market has tightened further, with the region recording one of Queensland’s biggest declines in rental availability during the June quarter.
The latest Residential Vacancy Rate Report from the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) found the Whitsunday vacancy rate fell by 0.4 percentage points over the three months to June, dropping to just 0.9 per cent.
The result places Whitsunday firmly within the REIQ’s classification of a ‘tight’ rental market, with any vacancy rate below 2.5 per cent considered tight.
Whitsunday was among the regions experiencing the most significant tightening across Queensland, alongside Mount Isa, which recorded a 0.7 percentage point decline, and Townsville and Lockyer Valley, which each fell by 0.3 percentage points.
The latest figures come as Queensland’s rental market remains constrained overall, despite more than half of the regions monitored by the REIQ recording an increase in vacancies during the quarter.
Statewide, the vacancy rate edged up to 1.0 per cent, still well below the REIQ’s ‘healthy’ range of 2.6 to 3.5 per cent. Of the 50 regions tracked, 29 recorded vacancy rates of 1.0 per cent or less.
REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the market remained under pressure, with affordability influencing both tenants and property owners.
“We’re seeing more regions relax than tighten, particularly across parts of regional Queensland, but we're still a long way from what anyone would call a healthy rental market,” Ms Mercorella said.
She said increasing housing supply remained the most sustainable solution to Queensland’s rental and affordability pressures.
For Whitsunday renters, however, the latest figures suggest finding a home remains a significant challenge, with fewer than one in every 100 rental properties estimated to be vacant.
$88,000 is set to boost one of Bowen’s oldest sporting institutions, with the Bowen Turf Club securing funding that’ll help keep horses and riders safe for years to come.
The grant comes as part of the Racing Queensland’s Country Club Asset Funding program, which was gifted $450,000 by the government as a means of infrastructure upgrades. The commitment to broader industry, as part of the The Next Lap: A Plan for the Future of Queensland Racing initiative.
Member for Burdekin Dale Last MP welcomed the funding, with the Burdekin Race Club receiving $365,000 and the Bowen Turf Club receiving $88,000.
“Both the Burdekin Growers Race Day and the Bowen Cup have cemented themselves into the North’s social calendar drawing thousands of visitors to our regions and boosting local economies,” Mr Last said.
“Racing Queensland’s Country Club Asset Funding program provides support towards infrastructure repairs, maintenance and asset replacement to ensure our country race clubs can continue to host the race days that become calendar highlights each year.”
"By supporting the investment into new jockey and stewards rooms at the Burdekin Race Club we provide opportunities to host more of our favourite race days right here at Home Hill."
For the Bowen Turf Club, the funding gives the volunteer-run organisation that has been working in the region for more than 160 years, a chance for a much needed upgrade.
The money will go towards replacing the ageing running rail around the club’s training track with a new poly running rail, helping keep horses and riders safe at a facility that continues to be regularly used for training.
“It’s huge because for a club to pull that sort of money out of the bank, that’s enough to wreck clubs,” said Steven Daly, President of the Bowen Turf Club.
“It’s critical infrastructure, especially when you’ve got horses trained at the track, for the safety of the horse and the rider.”
This money comes at a great time, with upcoming events like the Ben Bolt Cup this weekend and the heavily anticipated Bowen Cup in October.
These events draw thousands of people to Bowen, with the Ben Bolt Cup bringing in around 800 to 1,000 people and the Bowen Cup pulling crowds of more than 3,000.
For those trackside, Steven said the new rail would also give the facility a cleaner, more professional look, helping keep the club attracting these crowds for years to come.
“The new stuff looks professional to the punter, but it’s critical for the horses and riders,” Steven said.
“We’ve got to maintain what we’ve got and keep upgrading.”
Thousands of fish were photographed crowded together in the tunnel net sock during one of the trials conducted in Bowen in 2025. Photo credit: John Haenke
By Chelsea Ravizza
Growing community opposition has emerged over the Queensland Department of Primary Industries' (DPI) trials of tunnel nets in the Whitsundays, with residents, tourism operators and recreational fishers voicing concerns about the potential environmental and economic impacts of the proposed alternative to gill net fishing.
In May, more than 120 members of the Whitsundays community attended an information evening about the DPI’s trials of tunnel nets of up to 1.6 kilometres long, as part of research into alternative commercial fishing methods following the phase-out of inshore gillnets, with trials conducted in North Airlie, Double Bay, Shute Harbour, Bowen, Edgecumbe Bay and Sinclair Bay.
During the meeting, organisers from the Inshore Flats Project said trial data showed the nets captured more than 30,000 fish across 17 trial deployments and raised concerns about the potential impact on fish stocks, juvenile fish habitats, dugong protection areas and popular recreational and tourism sites. Coincidingly, the Inshore Flats Project also used the meeting to launch an online petition, available via www.change.org/p/stop-a-new-tunnel-net-fishery-in-the-great-barrier-reef-world-heritage-area, opposing the introduction of a tunnel net fishery, which has since attracted more than 10,500 signatures.
“A new tunnel net fishery means deploying huge nets up to 1.6 km long, which lack capture selectivity, onto our beaches, bays and foreshores, to harvest high volumes of lower-value seafood. These sites include fish nursery and protected species habitats in a World Heritage Area,” said a spokesperson of the Inshore Flats Project.
“This risks depleting local fish stocks, damaging coastal ecosystems, and harming local businesses that depend on recreational fishing and tourism. Accordingly, we have asked the QLD Government to permanently cease all tunnel net trials and divert the allocated public funds toward supporting the seafood industry in better ways.”
Concerns raised at the meeting also prompted questions about the level of community consultation surrounding the trials, with opponents arguing the large nets could affect popular recreational fishing areas and tourism activities, including boating, kayaking and wildlife viewing. Among those in attendance was local resident Sammantha Wood, who said she had been unaware of the proposal until the presentation and believed many others were in the same position.
“I genuinely hadn’t heard about the proposal before attending the presentation, and many people I spoke to afterwards hadn’t either,” said Ms Wood.
“Regardless of where people stand on the issue, I believe the community deserves to know what’s being proposed so they can educate themselves, ask questions and be involved in the conversation before any long-term decisions are made.”
A Department of Primary Industries spokesperson said the trials form part of research into alternative low-impact fishing methods following the removal of gillnets, with the department highlighting the research would help build the evidence base to inform future fisheries management decisions.
“The Queensland Government is committed to working with industry to identify sustainable, practical and evidence-based solutions that support the long-term future of Queensland’s inshore fishing industry as it transitions away from large mesh gillnets,” said a spokesperson for DPI.
“The Department of Primary Industries is working with commercial fishers, researchers and other stakeholders to assess a range of alternative fishing gears that could support a sustainable and commercially viable fishing industry. The purpose of the trials is to collect scientific and operational information to inform future fisheries management decisions.”
Ms Wood said the strong turnout at the information evening showed there was significant community interest in the proposal, with many attendees wanting more information about the potential impacts on the region.
“While people have different opinions, there seems to be a common feeling that the community wants to be informed and have a voice, and the majority of people I’ve spoken to feel that this is not the right area for them.”
Ms Wood said her concerns centred on protecting the region’s marine environment and ensuring any future decisions were supported by scientific evidence and meaningful community consultation.
“We [the Whitsundays region] rely heavily on healthy marine ecosystems, recreational fishing and tourism, and I think it’s important that any decisions are based on robust science, transparency and genuine community consultation,” she said.
“If there’s any risk of significant impacts on sensitive inshore habitats or species, I believe those risks should be carefully assessed before permanent changes are made.”
Tourism Whitsundays Public Relations and Social Media Manager Rosanagh Gallivan said the organisation had not been formally consulted on the trials but was actively monitoring the issue after concerns were raised by tourism operators andintended to write to Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell to outline those concerns.
“The Whitsundays is the leading destination on the Great Barrier Reef, and our pristine marine environment is at the heart of the visitor experience - it's vital that any decisions affecting it are carefully considered,” Ms Gallivan said.
“Tourism operators have raised concerns with us about the proposed tunnel net trials, and while Tourism Whitsundays has not been formally consulted, we are actively monitoring the issue and will be raising those concerns with the State Government to ensure the tourism industry's perspective is heard.”
Several members of the Inshore Flats Project from across the Mackay and Hinchinbrook regions have also voiced concerns about the tunnel net trials, with charter guides and recreational fishers expressing fears about the potential impact on the region's marine environment and tourism industry.
North Queensland flats charter guide Clint Isaac said he could not understand why the proposal was being considered.
“It blows my mind that the Queensland Government is even considering the introduction of 1.6 kilometre-long nets into the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area,” Mr Isaac said.
Retired North Queensland flats charter guide John Haenke, who witnessed one of last year's tunnel net trials at Bowen, said the experience reinforced his concerns about the proposed fishing method.
“What I saw at Bowen was completely unsustainable – trapped turtles and rays, plus thousands of stressed fish jammed together in a small mesh chamber, including dead and injured fish,” Mr Haenke said.
DPI said the FishLIGHT program would continue evaluating a range of alternative fishing methods and technologies to better understand their operational performance, environmental outcomes and suitability for Queensland fisheries, with data collected through the trials continuing to be analysed ahead of the statewide phase-out of inshore gillnets in June 2027.
“No decisions have been made about any future fisheries management arrangements,” said a spokesperson for DPI.
"Any future consideration of changes would be informed by the available scientific evidence and be subject to the appropriate regulatory processes and stakeholder consultation.”
It’s only ever feedback
By Richard Evans, President, Whitsundays Writers Festival
We all know the moment. You send the email, hand in the report, share the poem, cook the dinner, make the decision, and then the responses arrive. Some land like a hand on your shoulder. Others feel like a shove. Learning to tell criticism from feedback, and learning to manage both, is one of the most useful skills any of us can build, in art, at work, and at home.
At its simplest, criticism judges; feedback helps you grow.
Criticism sounds like a verdict: "This is good." "This is bad." "I like it." "I don’t." It tells you how something landed in someone else’s world, but not how to make it land better.
Feedback is more like a set of tools. It’s specific and pointed toward improvement: "This part loses me." "It would help if you explained your reasoning here." "I think this arrangement is crowding you."
There’s an old truth in this: it’s easy to criticise, harder to give useful feedback.
Anyone can say "I didn’t like it." Fewer people can say "here’s what didn’t work, and why." One person points at a flaw; another offers a path forward. Both are reacting, only one is offering something you can use. Your job isn’t to accept every comment. It’sto learn to sort them.
Separate the thing from yourself. People aren’t commenting on the whole of who you are; they’re responding to what you put in front of them; the draft, the decision, the meal, the plan. That distinction won’t stop it stinging. It will sting. But it helps to remember: feedback is about the work, not your worth. Being criticised is a normal part of doing anything that matters, not a sign you shouldn’t be doing it.
Don’t respond immediately. When something harsh or confusing arrives, pause. Read it. Acknowledge it if you need to. Then step away. A few hours, ideally a day. Resist the urge to defend, explain, or argue in the moment. "Thanks, I’ll think about that" is often enough. This protects your energy, and it protects the relationship.
Once you’ve made space, run the comment through some filters.
You don’t have to use all feedback. But it’s wise to listen before you decide.
It helps to sort criticism into types.
Learn from the first two. Let the third go. Keep a mental folder of the kind, useful words people have given you and revisit it when a harsh one lands. Talk to people who know what you’re aiming for. They’ll help you read the feedback for what it actually is.
Criticism and feedback are both mirrors. One shows you how something landed. The other shows you how to help it land better next time.
The task was never to avoid the sting. It’s to stay standing, stay curious, and keep going.
Creative Connections Whitsundays is delighted to present a new exhibition by Gemma Louise Pap in the Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine Community Creative Space.
Gemma has been a finalist in every Great Barrier Reef Festival Art Exhibition since 2024, and her latest collection continues to showcase the bright, colourful style that has become her signature.
This rotating exhibition program, delivered in partnership with Bendigo Community Bank Cannonvale–Proserpine, features a new Creative Connections Whitsundays artist every six weeks, providing valuable exhibition opportunities for both emerging and established members.
Inspired by the landscapes and native wildlife of North Queensland, Gemma's work celebrates the beauty and character of Australia's unique fauna. Combining expressive acrylic backgrounds with detailed oil painting, her vibrant artworks capture everything from familiar favourites to lesser-known native species in bold, contemporary ways.
Creativity has always been part of Gemma's life. Growing up in a home filled with artwork created by her mother, a commercial artist, she was encouraged to draw and paint from an early age. Today, as a full-time artist, she is passionate about making art accessible through original paintings, prints and Australian-made gifts.
Visitors can also discover more of Gemma’s work at the Creative Connections Whitsundays Community Gallery, 192 Main Street, Proserpine, where locally created artworks are available to view and purchase during Bendigo Community Bank opening hours.
Who says networking has to end when the Conference finishes?
New for 2026, the Chamber Games is set to become one of the most anticipated events on the annual local business calendar – bringing together businesses, community groups, sporting clubs and individuals for an afternoon of friendly competition.
Held immediately following the Whitsunday Business Conference, the Games are designed to celebrate the people behind our businesses.
Forget elite sporting ability. This is all about teamwork, participation, and having a go.
Teams of four will rotate through a series of fun, fast-paced challenges. Expect plenty of laughs, a little healthy competition, and the chance to discover who really has the best team spirit.
Whether you're entering with work mates, friends, clients or fellow Chamber members, the Chamber Games is a unique opportunity to strengthen relationships outside the workplace while meeting new people from across the region.
Better still, you don't need to attend the Business Conference to participate. The Chamber Games is open to everyone, making it a fantastic way for businesses, community organisations and sporting clubs to connect with the wider business community.
There are plenty of prizes up for grabs, including Gold, Silver and Bronze medals, the Best Dressed Team Award, and the coveted Chamber Games Perpetual Trophy, which will be proudly displayed by the winning team until next year's event.
So dust off your team colours, start thinking about your costumes, and gather your teammates and cheer squad.
Business is serious enough. The Chamber Games is your chance to finish the day with a smile and create memories that will be talked about long after the medals have been handed out.
The only question is... who will take home the inaugural Chamber Games title?
Still deciding whether to attend?
Here are five reasons why the Whitsunday Business Conference deserves a place in your diary.
1. Practical ideas Hear strategies and insights you can implement immediately.
2. Inspiring speakers Learn from business leaders and regional experts who understand today's challenges.
3. Valuable connections Meet fellow business owners, suppliers, and decision-makers from across the region.
4. Explore the Business Expo Discover products, services, and opportunities that could benefit your business.
5. Continue the experience Finish the day with the inaugural Chamber Games – a fun celebration of teamwork and community.
One day away from your business could change the next twelve months within it.
Join us on Thursday 27 August and invest in your business, your team and your future.
Tickets are on sale now.
All photos supplied by Julia Evans.
The best conferences don't just inspire – they equip you with ideas you can use the very next day.
That's the philosophy behind the 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference speaker line-up. Every presenter has been selected because they bring practical experience, proven expertise, and a genuine understanding of the challenges facing regional businesses today.
Leading the program is keynote speaker Ian Cohen from Cozalive, whose engaging presentation will challenge attendees to rethink the way they communicate, market, and build their brand. Through real-world examples, practical insights, and plenty of humour, Ian will explore how effective communication can strengthen reputation, increase visibility, and create tangible commercial opportunities.
Across the day, delegates can tailor their own Conference experience by choosing from a series of interactive concurrent sessions covering the issues shaping the future of business.
If you're looking to work smarter, Associate Professor Rachel Hay and PhD candidate Naomi Porter from James Cook University will demonstrate how practical systems, artificial intelligence, and work-integrated learning can reduce administration, improve productivity, and strengthen workforce capability without overwhelming your business.
For businesses wanting to secure larger opportunities, Damien Dederer from Abbot Point Operations and Bowen Rail Company and Mick Spencer from the Australian Agave Project will discuss how regional businesses can better connect with major industry, strengthen local supply chains, and capture more of the value created in our region.
People remain every business's greatest asset, and leadership specialist Michele Tocci will share practical strategies for creating psychologically safe workplaces where employees feel confident to contribute ideas, solve problems, and help businesses innovate.
Cash flow continues to challenge even profitable businesses. Gus Walsgott from the Small Business Financial Counselling Service North Queensland will unpack common financial pitfalls and provide practical tools to improve cash flow, identify warning signs early, and strengthen long-term financial sustainability.
Marketing also takes centre stage through a practical panel discussion featuring Tolita Dukes from 8 Seconds and Melissa Ardern from The Creek Whitsundays. Together, they'll explore what's working in today's marketplace, including building brand visibility, using AI effectively, creating efficient marketing systems, and turning your brand into a genuine competitive advantage.
Whether you're looking to grow your business, build a stronger team, improve cash flow, embrace AI, sharpen your marketing, or connect with major industry opportunities, you'll leave with practical strategies, new perspectives, and the confidence to put ideas into action.
Because great businesses aren't built by knowing more – they're built by applying what matters most.
Chamber President, Allan Milositc with Mayor Ry Collins. Photo credit: Daniel Heggie.
Running a business has never been more challenging. Rising costs, workforce shortages, artificial intelligence, changing customer expectations, and increasing regulation are reshaping the way we work—and standing still is no longer an option.
That's why the 2026 Whitsunday Business Conference has been designed to deliver one thing: practical value.
Hosted by the Whitsundays Chamber of Commerce and Industry, this year's Conference will bring together business owners, government, educators, and entrepreneurs for a full day of ideas, connections, and opportunities that can be put into practice immediately.
Forget theory. This is a program built around regional success stories, practical solutions, and conversations that matter.
Attendees will hear from inspiring speakers and build their own Conference experience by choosing from interactive sessions on leadership, workforce, artificial intelligence, marketing, productivity, innovation, and business growth – ensuring every delegate walks away with practical insights relevant to their business.
Whitsundays Chamber President Allan Milostic said the Conference continues to evolve alongside the needs of local businesses.
"The business landscape is changing rapidly, and our role is to ensure local businesses have access to the ideas, people, and opportunities that help them stay competitive," Allan said.
"Whether you're looking to solve a challenge, discover a new opportunity, or simply reconnect with the wider business community, the Conference is one of the best investments you can make in yourself and your business."
Learning is only part of the experience. Throughout the day, delegates can connect with suppliers, exhibitors, government representatives, and fellow business owners before continuing conversations over the Conference Long Lunch.
No matter your industry or stage of business, you'll leave with fresh ideas, valuable contacts, and renewed confidence for the year ahead.
One day. Endless possibilities for your business.
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